Best RC Truck - Buyer's Guide

Gareth Otwell By Gareth Otwell · Last Updated Dec. 03, 2020

Due to the exceptional advancement in the development of remote-controlled little machines, today you can buy an excellently performing RC truck. If you would like to own an RC Truck, therefore, all you have to do is find the most suitable RC truck from the market. The best RC truck will climb harsh, steep terrains, and maneuver hard obstacles, rocky environments, and cruise comfortably on flat grounds.

To help you identify and buy the best RC truck, we have compiled a list of 10 of the best RC truck and reviewed them extensively. Besides the best RC truck reviews, we have also included a comprehensive buyer's guide that will help you make the right buying decision at the end of your shopping.

Traxxas Stampede 2WD Monster Truck - Best 2WD Monster RC Truck

This Traxxas Stampede is specially made for people who prefer driving 2WD. Even with the 2WD system, this Traxxas model comes with Titan 12-turn 550 modified motor just like other Traxxas RC trucks. It also comes fitted with Revo-Spec Torque-control slipper clutch that provides consistent traction.

It also features XL-5 Electric Speed Control that is waterproof to supply an uninterrupted smooth power to the motor. It also features high-performing ESC for low-voltage protection, thermal shutdown protection, and the three drive modes.

The precision hobby-grade 2.4GHz control is ergonomically designed with a radio system that has no channels or frequencies to monitor in order to have fun racing.

With all waterproof electronic components and excellent features, we recommend this as an ideal RC truck for young kids and adults as well.

Pros
  • Solidly constructed
  • It is super-fast
  • Easy to operate
Cons
  • Comes with a cheaply made charger
  • Very Expensive

Traxxas Revo 3.3 - Best Speed RC Truck

This is a 4WD Nitro-Power Monster Truck from Traxxas that comes with a 3.3 racing engine that delivers massive power and torque to all the 4 wheels in order to conquer any terrain at an amazing top speed of 45mph.

It features a TQi 2.4GHz transmitter fitted with Traxxas Link wireless module and a factory installed sensor for excellent control and racing. The TSM also offers great stability control against flipping or overturning.

It comes with a rechargeable receiver battery, an EZ-StartBattery, and a 2-amp DC peak detecting charger for easy and convenient charging.

It comes with a wider and taller stance with new Geode wheels that come fitted with a 6.3in max-sized tires and a dual digital waterproof ball-bearing servos for greater performance on harsh off-road terrains.

This is a great RC truck for people who want high speeds, but we don't recommend it due to its high price.

Pros
  • Easy to control RC
  • Great racing speed
  • Fully assembled
Cons
  • Poor quality transmitter
  • Very expensive

Hosim Large Size 1:10 - Best Overall

Hosim is among the leading companies in the RC toy vehicles industry. It designs and produces high-quality RC trucks that ensure you enjoy a superior performance even on an off-road track. One of its top-rated RC trucks is the Hosim Larger Size 1:10. This truck comes with excellent features that make it an ideal gift for both children and adults.

It comes equipped with two powerful motors that deliver a maximum speed of 30mph. With such a high speed, this RC cross-country truck will bring a great speeding experience in off-road racing competitions.

This high speed is backed up by anti-skid heavy-duty wheels that feature aggressive treads that give it strong grip tires designed to handle both off-road and on-road terrains. This four-wheel RC truck comes fitted with a bouncing spring material that offers support to any unexpected dropping as well as to the uneven off-road surface. The four-wheel and full four-direction control also allows you to have better racing experience.

It is constructed from tough metal materials like steel that is used to build the chassis structure while the ball bearing is sealed with metal materials to help it handle the rough roads and tough environments. The chassis structure is stimulated to be shockproof and reduces the impact on unsteady drives.

If you are in search of a strong and high-speed RC truck for off-road racing, we recommend that you consider Hosim Large Size 1:10 because it just might be the perfect choice.

Pros
  • Strong and powerful double motors
  • Heavy-duty wheels ideal for off-road terrain
  • High speed for excellent speeding
  • Durable with an all-metal body
  • Easy to control
Cons
  • Tough to get spare parts

Traxxas 58034-1-Mark - Best Waterproof RC Truck

Traxxas is a renowned name in the RC vehicle industry. The firm is known for its production of high-end RC vehicles that are versatile and capable of offering an excellent all-terrain performance. Traxxas 58034-1-Mark is one of such vehicles that can take your off-road and on-road racing competition to the next level.

It features the Titan 12T 550 modified motor that is designed to deliver an incredible power output yet requires almost no maintenance. It is integrated with cooling fans that pull cold air throughout the motor to keep its overall temperature as low as possible. This motor is powerful enough to deliver up to 30 mph top speed on-road surface.

It comes with a waterproof receiver box designed to hold a 3-channel micro receiver that provides an excellent long-range RC performance. This ensures that you will have a continuous chain of fun even in the muddy terrain or during the rainy season.

It comes equipped with a genuine iD-equipped Power Cell NiMH battery that ensures you experience all the performance without frequent interruptions of low power. The 4-Amp peak detecting charge can offer a quick and convenient charging even at the field since it uses a 12-Volt DC power outlet.

If you are looking for a great all-terrain RC truck, then we recommend this Traxxas 58034-1-Mark.

Pros
  • Comes with a waterproof receiver box
  • Solidly constructed to be sturdy
  • The manufacturer has a great customer service
Cons
  • Poorly designed
  • Slightly expensive

Traxxas 1/10 Scale Rustler RTR Stadium Truck - Best On-road RC Truck

With a stunning 6-color ProGraphix body and a decal set with bold 2.8'' mirror-chrome all-star wheels, Traxxas 1/10 Scale Rustler RTR stands out from the other RC trucks. Moreover, it comes with the Titan 12-Turn 550 Modified Motor and an XL-5 ESC that provide a speed of up to 35mph. All the motor components and other electronic features are waterproof to ensure you enjoy an all-weather driving and racing.

This RC truck comes with Traxxas 7-cell NiMH battery fitted with iD technology. You can recharge it with a 4amp 12-volt DC peak-detecting that can charge your battery faster even in the field so that you don't miss any racing experience.

It also features a Revo-Spec Torque-Control slipper clutch that uses special semi-metallic friction and finned aluminum to offer consistent traction control. The hardened steel gears in the differential and aggressive rear tires deliver the power produced to the ground.

For easy control, it features a TQ 2.4GHz radio system that is ergonomically designed to ensure you have a comfortable all-day driving while its internal antenna is resistant to damage.

If you are looking for an excellent RC truck for your on-road racing experience we recommend this Traxxas 1/10 Scale Rustler RTR Stadium truck. It is ready to take on even your most extreme adventures right from the box.

Pros
  • Easy to control with ergonomically designed remote control
  • Has a quick and convenient charging
  • Solidly constructed with durable materials
Cons
  • Difficult to find spare parts
  • Slightly expensive

DOUBLE E 1:12 RC – Best Off-Road Performance

Are you looking for an excellent off-road performance? If you are, we believe that this is and might be an ideal pick for all your off-road RC truck racing. So, why pick this model? Here are some of the features that make it ideal.

The truck is a 4-wheel drive with rear and front motors that provide a strong power torque for greater racing through off-road terrain. The four-wheeled independent suspension system and shock absorbers ensure that you can be confident moving over the rough surface while protecting the delicate electronic components.

It is easily controlled with a 2.4G radio control mechanism that allows you to control the truck in four directions for easy forward and backward motion and turning left or right for easy racing. It also allows multiple RC trucks to run simultaneously.

With its anti-crash body design and ABS tires that are not only soft but also elastic and shockproof, you are ready to take up the racing competition to the rocky mountains and on the sand. With the tires' anti-skid design, you will be able to dominate races even on muddy terrains.

Pros
  • Performs well with shockproof wheels
  • Comes with 4-wheel drive independent suspension system
  • Has strong power torque for easy moving on off-road terrain
Cons
  • Battery does not last long

RedCat Racing Everest Gen7 - Best Crawler RC Truck

If you are looking for an RC truck that will change your racing experience, look no further than this rock crawler from Redcat Racing. Right out of the box, this truck is ready for use in whatever terrain you take it. Under the scale crawler market, this is the only RC model that comes with features that are optional yet for an amazing price.

It comes with a 3mm ladder frame chassis designed and tuned by BPC Custom Chassis and Two Guys Trail Gear that makes it roll over rough surfaces without compromising the electric components.

Moreover, it comes with a steel electronic bridge, a low slung forward mounted battery tray, and a highly tunable platform that allow it to perform a head to head against the customized crawlers that are even twice as expensive as it is.

It also comes with a 2000mAh NiMH battery and charger that is quick and convenient to charge with even in the field. What's more, its 2.4GHz radio system allows you to competently control it from a long distance.

With a brushed 550 powerful motor, you can definitely take your off-road experience to the next level. As a result, we recommend it highly for people looking to push their off-road racing to the next level.

Pros
  • Comes with a powerful brushed motor
  • Has forward and reverse transmission
  • Delivers a great performance on an off-road terrain
Cons
  • Very expensive

Redcat Racing Electric Volcano EPX Truck - Best Redcat RC Truck

If you are looking for a full time 4-wheel drive RC truck to race up big hills and on dirt and mud without trouble, then Redcat Racing Electric Volcano EPX Truck is here for you.

This RC truck comes fully assembled and ready to run right from the box. With 8AA batteries for the 2.4GHz radio remote control, you can start your racing competition as soon as it arrives. It comes fully equipped with 2000mAh NiMH battery as well as the NiMH charger for quick and convenient charging.

It features all waterproof electronic components that allow you to race in all manner of terrains and weather conditions. Its electric brushed motor delivers excellent power to help you win the race.

If you need an RC truck that comes with 100 percent replaceable parts, then we recommend this RC truck. It is an ideal birthday gift for a 14-year or older.

Pros
  • Has solidly constructed frames
  • Comes with a great 4-wheel traction
  • It comes with a long-range transmitter
Cons
  • A cheaply made charger that breaks easily
  • Hard to find parts

Redcat Racing Blackout XTE - Best With Long Life Battery

Having the longest driving experience in the field delivers a great feeling, especially when people riding other RC trucks have gone to recharge them. If this is what you want to experience, then there is no doubt that Redcat Racing Blackout XTE will be your ideal pick.

This RC truck comes equipped with 7.2v 3000mAh battery to give you the best battery life you could ever have in the field. The charger is also included for faster and convenient charging.

It features a powerful RC550 brushed motor to deliver excellent power to the four-wheel drive massive off-road wheels. The shaft-driven 4WD provides you with the necessary traction to run over and maneuver the harshest terrains. Moreover, the forward and reverse ESC provides you with the benefit of navigating the tight spots commonly found in off-road terrains.

It is made from lightweight plastic chassis, four oil filled adjustable coil over shocks, and independent suspensions that provide a rock solid performance. The treaded compound tires also offer excellent traction allowing you to ride even over slippery surfaces with ease.

If you want a longer racing experience per single charge, then we recommend this RC truck for you.

Pros
  • Has a lasting battery life
  • It is easy to control and drive
  • Made stable not to flip easily
  • Comes fully assembled
Cons
  • No use instructions for newbies
  • Poorly constructed with low-quality material

Instech RC Car, 1:18 All Terrain RC - Best Priced

The RC truck is specially designed for all-terrain, implying that you won't have problems running on your home carper as well as in the rocky off-road environment. With this RC truck, you will easily finish your races ahead of many others. Why so?

It comes with a high performing and fast 380 motor that is fitted with an overheat protection for long races. The motor is powered by a 4.8v 700mAh in-car battery that comes with its charger.

It features a high performing remote control that operates with a 2.4G transmitter 4ch steering system. For improved performance, it comes constructed with S-truck suspension technology to offer a greater off-road performance.

It is also constructed with strong and durable materials that are perfect for a specialized operation such as flip, drift, and turn. As such, if you want a cheaper yet high performing RC truck, this could be your ideal choice.

Pros
  • Perfect for little kids
  • Good quality construction that is durable
  • Has stable all-terrain tires
Cons
  • The wheels get hot
  • Might come with chipped painting

What to Consider Before Buying the Best RC Truck - Buyer's Guide

When buying a RC truck, you need to consider quite a number of options. This is because there are a few things you need to be aware of so that you can end up with the best RC truck. Here are some of the things to consider:

Where to Use it-Terrain

Generally, RC trucks are made to drive in the harshest terrains and obstacles. As such, they feature wide tires that offer a solid grip even when the truck is on a muddy environment. A high-quality suspension will also offer you a chance to navigate the rocky terrains. So be sure to pick an RC truck that features all the factors that go into handling off-road terrains.

Durability

The best RC truck ought to feature a tough construction, both body and chassis in order to secure the delicate inside electronic components from damage. As such, consider picking an RC truck that is made from durable materials that won't develop faults due to the frequent crashing into obstacles.

Brand

It is advisable to always consider top rated brands that are known to produce quality RC vehicles instead of buying little-known brands. Furthermore, top-rated brands often offer additional parts and great customer support services.

Speed

Although speed in RC trucks is not as important as in RC cars, it is not to be ignored entirely. The best RC truck should attain a top speed of up to 40mph, which is great with regard to its heaviness and the terrain they race on.

Maintenance

Before you commit your money on a RC truck, it is important to determine whether it is easy to maintain the RC truck you intend to buy. Usually, standard and electric RC models are easy to maintain as compared to hobby level RC truck models. On the other hand, nitro trucks are relatively difficult to maintain.

Battery life

When it comes to RC trucks, you will want to have the longest racing experience in the field. As such, checking the battery life can be crucial towards actualizing your wish. NiMH batteries are said to have the best battery life as compared to the other types available in the market.

Warranty

Most of the RC trucks are backed with a good warranty. So, ensure you review the coverage that the RC you intend to buy comes with besides the availability of support from the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Being able to buy the best RC truck is absolutely fun and rewarding. The best RC truck will have you hooked to your racing hobby while creating strong and lasting bonds between you and your children or racing team. The best RC truck is one that meets your racing needs and preferred style. You will definitely increase your fun if you find the best truck.

We hope this review will help you find your best RC truck. You are also welcome to subscribe here to receive alerts on our future product reviews or technologies related but not limited to this topic.

Gareth Otwell

About Gareth Otwell

Gareth Otwell is a 28-year-old tech geek. Currently working at a big IT company. He chooses to widen the topics he writes about so as to provide his readers with an all-in-one go-to platform that they can use to research for just about anything. Read more

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